Prayers of the People, L5A

Gracious and life-giving God,
you who call us to set our minds on the Spirit,
you whose Spirit is life and peace within us,
we come before you
seeking peace for those who live in turmoil,
seeking hope for those who live in despair,
seeking community for those who live in isolation,
seeking strength for those who are weary from serving others.

In a world that is fraught with tension and conflict,
othering one another because of our differences,
be present with those who are seeking to live
according to Jesus' counter-cultural example.
Send your church to stand with them
in the name of justice.
Make us messengers of peace.

In a world that prizes fame and fortune
more than kindness and compassion,
be present with those who are on the margins
and whose very lives hang in the balance.
Send your people to care for them 
as Jesus cared for the lost and the broken. 
Make us messengers of hope.

In a world that is turning inward,
creating silos and shutting doors,
be present with the lonely 
and with the grieving
and with the fearful
and with the anxious.
Send your people to fling open windows
and gather up the suffering
that they might be renewed by the love
of the Body of Christ.
Make us messengers of joy.

In a world where so many are hurting, Lord,
be present with the helpers,
who faithfully seek to serve your people, 
that they may be strengthened by your Spirit
and renewed for the work that lies ahead,
trusting that the same Spirit who gives life
is at work in us even now.
Grant us restorative sleep
and healing nourishment
that we might be prepared to answer your call.
In Jesus' name we pray, 
Amen.